In recent years, nutraceuticals have received much attention due to their immune, nutritional, and therapeutic effects to promote health and prevent disease [29]. On the other hand, diet is one of the most important factors related to lifestyle in determining the health status and predisposing children to several diseases. Various studies have pointed out the positive and negative long-term effects of prenatal diet on adolescents’ and adulthood health status [30–32]. Also, the impact of maternal diet on the permanent changes of offspring’s CNS has been evidenced [33]. However, the effect of maternal dietary supplementation with nuts as a rich source of vitamins, minerals, fibers, nutrients, and non-nutrients in offspring has not been well studied. We have observed that almond consumption during pregnancy has long-term effects on adult male offspring and causes molecular changes. Almonds are composed of several ingredients including macronutrients (carbohydrate, protein, fat), micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), phytochemicals, and essential oils [34]. Almonds are a rich source of amino acids like tryptophan [35], vitamins and minerals including a variety of B and E vitamins [36], and polyphenols and phytosterols [37]. Interestingly, studies have shown that all active compounds of almonds can cross the placenta and affect the development of fetus organs [38].
Leave a Reply